The "ATS_EX" advanced firmware for the ATS-20 and ATS-20+ DSP receivers, primarily developed by
, is an "exclusive" community-driven update that re-imagines the radio's interface and core functionality. It pushes the limits of the Arduino Nano’s memory to transform the basic receiver into a more professional tool. Core Feature Upgrades Integrated BFO Tuning
: Unlike standard firmware where the Beat Frequency Oscillator (BFO) is a separate option, ATS_EX merges it into the main frequency display. This allows for seamless SSB tuning across the entire band, similar to high-end receivers. Expanded Band Coverage : 153 kHz – 520 kHz : 520 kHz – 1710 kHz
: 1710 kHz – 30,000 kHz (re-configured as one continuous band for easier surfing) : 64 MHz – 108 MHz Reworked Interface
: Features a minimalistic design with a highly readable 7-segment font for frequency display and a new optional S-meter scale that replaces the original RSSI display. Dynamic RDS for FM
: Displays up to 16 characters of Radio Data System info (station names, song titles) with toggleable information lines. Advanced Settings & Customization Power & Signal Management : Includes settings for Soft Mute (SM) Automatic Volume Control (AVC) SSB Cutoff Filters (COF) to refine audio quality. Hardware Control : Users can adjust screen brightness and even the CPU frequency to reduce internal radio interference or save battery life. New Operation Modes : Adds a dedicated CW (Continuous Wave) mode for Morse code listening. Installation & Constraints Flash Memory Limit
: The firmware has reached the absolute maximum size for the ATmega328P chip (approx. 30,706 bytes), meaning no new features can be added without removing existing ones. Hardware Mods : Some features, like the battery level indicator
, require a simple physical modification (adding a voltage divider to pin A2) to function. Flashing Requirement
: To update, you must use a data-capable Mini USB cable (not just a charging cable) and software like Further Exploration Check out the official Goshante GitHub repository for the latest v1.18 binary files and source code. video demonstration of the ATS_EX interface to see the new S-meter and settings menu in action. community discussion on Reddit regarding the battery level hardware mod. Consult the manuals.plus guide
for a full breakdown of the firmware's "Exclusive" settings. or more details on the battery circuit mod ATS_EX Firmware for ATS-20 DSP Receiver - GitHub
The phrase "ATS20 firmware exclusive" likely refers to community-developed, third-party firmwares that offer features not available in the factory software (v1.1.5). These updates are essentially "exclusive pieces" of software that unlock the full potential of the SI4732/SI4735-based ATS-20 and ATS-20+ receivers. Key "Exclusive" Firmware Options
ATS_EX by Goshante (v1.18): Considered a major "exclusive" upgrade, it features a completely reimagined, minimalistic interface that replaces the stock "stretched" fonts with a 7-segment style frequency display. It also integrates BFO (Beat Frequency Oscillator) directly into the main tuning process and adds an S-meter.
PU2CLR Library-Based Firmware: Many exclusive community builds are based on the PU2CLR SI4735 Arduino Library. Newer versions (v3.0.4+) provide significantly more features than the original stock version pre-loaded on most devices.
ATS_mini_RTty_Morse_Code_Decoder: Specific versions of firmware for related SI4732 devices (like the ATS Mini) include specialized decoders for CW (Morse) and RTTY, which are not present in standard builds. Common Features Unlocked
Upgrading to these exclusive firmware "pieces" typically provides: ats20 firmware exclusive
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Unlocking the Full Potential of Your ATS-20: The "ATS_EX" Firmware Guide If you’ve picked up an
DSP receiver, you already know it’s one of the best "bang-for-your-buck" portable radios out there. But out of the box, the stock firmware can feel a bit basic. Enter the "exclusive" community-favorite upgrade: the ATS_EX Advanced Firmware by Goshante This firmware pushes the humble Arduino Nano
inside your receiver to its absolute physical limits, offering features that make it feel like a much more expensive piece of kit. Why Upgrade to ATS_EX? ATS_EX firmware
isn't just a minor patch; it’s a complete "re-imagining" of the user interface. Here is why enthusiasts from the Si47XX Radio Experimenters group are making the switch: Optimized Performance
: This code is stripped down and optimized to fit the limited flash memory of the ATS-20, squeezing every drop of power out of the Si4732/35 DSP chip Enhanced Signal Metering
: Adds a visual signal level bar (S-meter) at the bottom of the screen via a long press of the SSB Sync Mode
: Improved handling for Single Side Band (SSB) modulation, including a dedicated sync mode accessible through the Better Band Navigation
: A refined "Band selection mode" allows for faster scrolling through subbands and quick switches between FM and SW. Audio Fixes The "ATS_EX" advanced firmware for the ATS-20 and
: Newer iterations (v2 and v3) have even worked on experimental fixes to eliminate the annoying "audio pops" during tuning. How to Install the Upgrade
Ready to flash? You’ll need a few tools and a bit of patience. ATS_EX Firmware for ATS-20 DSP Receiver - GitHub
ATS_EX (Goshante): Widely considered a "game changer," this firmware reworks the interface, improves encoder responsiveness, and merges the Beat Frequency Oscillator (BFO) with the main frequency for smoother SSB tuning.
PU2CLR (Ricardo Lima Caratti): The base for many versions (including factory V1.1.5), this library-based firmware supports a wide range of SI473X chips and is often used by developers to create custom variants.
Modified Versions: Some developers have released updates like V3.0.7g or specific versions by creators like CT2JWF, which may prioritize button-based controls over the rotary encoder. Exclusive Feature Enhancements ATS-20 Si4732 receiver firmware update
The ATS-20 "Exclusive" (ATS_EX) firmware is an advanced, third-party upgrade for the ATS-20/ATS-20+ DSP receiver, primarily developed by Goshante. It is designed to replace the standard factory firmware (PU2CLR v1.1.5) with a more refined user interface and expanded features. Core Features of ATS_EX Firmware
Refined UI: Replaces original "stretched" fonts with a minimalistic, highly readable interface featuring a 7-segment frequency display.
Integrated Controls: BFO (Beat Frequency Oscillator) is integrated into the main frequency control, removing the need for a dedicated menu option during surfing.
Expanded SSB Support: Provides more precise tuning steps for Single Side Band (SSB) and adds a CW mode.
FM Enhancements: Extends the FM band (64–108 MHz) and adds dynamic RDS with 16-character display lines and station scanning.
Band Handling: Merges all SW bands into a single continuous range from 1710 to 30,000 KHz.
Digital Signal Visuals: Replaces poor RSSI displays with an optional S-meter scale. Hardware Compatibility & Versions
Before flashing, you must identify your device's internal revision by disassembling it:
Nano Revision: The Arduino is a separate board soldered onto the main PCB. Enhanced Performance : Our firmware is optimized to
Uno Revision: All components, including the ATMega328 chip, are soldered directly to one main board.
Battery Metering: Standard firmware often looks at pin A2 for battery voltage. Some ATS-20+ units use pin A1, requiring either a physical "solder blob" bridge or a specific firmware version (e.g., ATS_EX_v1_18_A1.hex) to enable the battery meter without hardware mods. Installation Risks & Requirements Lets upgrade the ATS 20+
ATS_EX firmware by Goshante is a popular custom firmware for the ATS-20 and ATS-20+ DSP receivers that pushes the device's hardware limits. Key Improvements in ATS_EX Firmware
Compared to the stock firmware (typically version 1.1.5), this "exclusive" or advanced modification offers several functional overhauls: Reduced "Chuffing":
Significantly reduces the "soft mute" effect when tuning, making frequency scanning smoother. Enhanced SSB Tuning:
Simplifies Single Sideband (SSB) operation by allowing fine-tuning (e.g., 100 Hz steps) directly from the main VFO control without exiting to separate menus. Advanced Metering:
Implements a highly functional signal strength meter with a bar graph under the frequency. Unique Menu Options: Adds a dedicated settings menu for features like: Automatic volume control specifically for SSB. CPU Optimization: Option to set CPU frequency to 50% for battery saving. Sync Mode: Synchronous detection for SSB modulation. Display Mods: Improved interface layouts and battery level indicators. Installation & Technical Limits Flash Memory Limit:
The developer (Goshante) has stated that this firmware has hit the maximum flash size of the Atmel microcontroller (Arduino Nano/Uno), meaning no further features can be added. Flashing Tools: Most users recommend using on Windows for flashing the You will likely need the CH340 or CH341 USB-to-UART driver to connect the radio to your PC. Hardware Variants: Before flashing, identify if your unit uses an Arduino Nano (soldered as a separate board) or an Arduino Uno style layout. Important Resources ATS_EX Firmware for ATS-20 DSP Receiver - GitHub
The most sought-after feature in exclusive firmware is the real-time spectrum display.
Here is where the ATS20 firmware becomes exclusive to the point of shocking. Certain firmware forks allow the ATS20 to act as a passive ADS-B receiver for aircraft.
While it cannot decode the raw digital packets due to CPU limitations, the exclusive "Scout" mode listens for the 1090MHz carrier bursts. It tracks the signal strength and timing, allowing the user to triangulate overhead aircraft using the doppler shift heard through the speaker. No other sub-$50 radio does this without external hardware.
Proceed with caution: Flashing the wrong binary can brick your device. However, STM32 chips are hard to kill.
You will need:
The Process:
stock_backup.bin. Do not skip this.0x8000000.